Oakville Homes for Sale

Oakville is a Great Place to Live

2012-02-14T08:34:00.000-08:00

Oakville a Great Place to Live
Oakville, Ontario is a wonderful family oriented town to live in. It is a town in Halton Region, on Lake Ontario in Southern Ontario, Canada, and is part of the Greater Toronto Area. It is one of the most affluent as well as desirable towns in Canada to live in. It is about a 45 minute drive to Toronto and has excellent go transit service to Toronto and surrounding areas.
Oakville has a lot to offer. Downtown Oakville’s Main street has exqusite shopping and restaurants. Downtown Oakville has a fine collection of retail boutiques including art galleries, restaurants, gourmet food shops, high fashion and design houses, health, wealth and wellness centres. As a modern, fun, and happening place there is always something to do in downtown Oakville such as the ever-popular ‘Midnight Madness’, the legendary Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival, and ‘A Taste of Downtown Oakville’.
There is historic sites and museums in Oakville which include Canadian Golf Hall of Fame & Museum, Oakville Galleries, Spruce Lane Farmhouse, Oakville Museum. Since Oakville has such a wonderful waterfront, there is a waterfront festival in the summer which has proven to be a wonderful town event.
There is lots of beautiful parks and greenspace to enjoy such as Bronte Creek Provincial Park. For Golfer’s there is Glen Abbey Golf Course, site of several Canadian Open professional golf championships and many other amateur tournaments. There are also sports associations and recreational facilities in Oakville.
Oakville has all the amenities found in large cities such as Toronto such as major shopping malls, banks, medical facilities and schools. Oakville has a good choice of private schools and ample public elementary and secondary schools to choose from. Oakville is also home to the well Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning.
Within Oakville there are many neighbourhoods such as Kerr Village, South East Oakville and Falgarwood. The many neighbourhoods offer something for everyone. There are different types of housing and of course various price ranges making it possible for most buyers to find their dream home in Oakville, Ontario
For more information on about Oakville homes properties and living in Oakville please contact Joanne Hardy, Sales Representative,

For more information Contact Joanne Hardy,

67 Lakeshore Ave West. Oakville Ontario L6K 1C9 (905) 338-9000

Cell: 416- 230-1425

Keeping your home show ready.

2012-02-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Most people understand the importance of showing their home to its best advantage when it’s up for sale. This means that a real estate professional may show clients around a prospective home that has undergone proper staging techniques and consequently looks and smells great.

Of course, the reality of the situation is that the current homeowners are still living in the home. That means that the home will occasionally be cluttered, appear to actually be lived-in, and may not always smell the best – particularly if animals are in residence. Such things can make an unfavourable impression on buyers, but fortunately there are a few handy techniques that can make staging your home look as if it has just been cleaned by a professional. For more of this article click here.

For more information contact Jo Hardy

67 Lakeshore Ave West. Oakville Ontario L6K 1C9 (905) 338-9000

Cell: 416- 230-1425

More Winter Home Maintenance Tips

2012-02-05T07:48:00.000-08:00

Remember to check the outside of your Oakville home after a snow fall and monitor outdoor vents, gas meters and chimneys for ice and snow build up. Make sure to keep snow away from gas meters vents and basement windows. Also, make sure that your Oakville home is equipped with snow shovels, snow blowers and ice melter before the snow starts.
Taking the time to prepare and maintain your Oakville home will save time and money in costly repairs later and if you are thinking of selling in the winter months will show prospective buyers the house is well maintained.
For more information Contact Joanne Hardy

Feng Shui and the Power of Staging

2012-02-01T08:07:00.000-08:00

Selling a house in today’s real estate market requires more than a little redesign and renovation. How you present your home to prospective buyers is similar to putting on a show. You want those viewing it, to connect with your home visually as well as emotionally just like an audience in a theater.
Selling a home back in simpler times used to be a much less time intensive process. On Sundays a family or two would stop by with a realtor, gingerly touring your house without opening closet doors, expecting stainless steel appliances or an entertainment room. You’d get a call one day that one of them liked it and the rest was basically paperwork.
Today’s home buyer is demanding and savvy. They want the most bang for their buck and won’t stop looking until they get it. There are a wide variety of properties for them to choose them in Oakville and elsewhere. As everyone knows, the more choices someone has, the longer it takes for them to decide. Homeowners in a hurry to sell or who don’t have unlimited time to keep swinging open the front door every time an agent arrives with a couple that can’t be pleased, shouldn’t undermine the difference that creatively staging their home can make. From the photos of your home that are posted on the internet to the pictures you have on the walls, you’re vying to grab the attention of that person experiencing them away from other properties. There is no process these days more competitive than selling a home, in fact, yet applying the right logic and techniques can result in a faster sale. Click here for the full article

For more information Contact Joanne Hardy.

67 Lakeshore Ave West. Oakville Ontario L6K 1C9 (905) 338-9000
Cell: 416- 230-1425

Home Staging Oakville Real Estate Jo Hardy

2012-01-26T08:17:00.000-08:00

Joanne's design sense was honed from planning and overseeing several home renovations, personally and professionally, as well as acting as a home stager. After buying and selling many properties in Oakville, Toronto and cottage country, she fell in love with the process; viewing properties, learning the market, identifying which attributes spoke to her and navigating the real estate process.

For more information Contact Joanne Hardy,

67 Lakeshore Ave West. Oakville Ontario L6K 1C9 (905) 338-9000
Cell: 416- 230-1425

Tips on Winter home Maintenance

2012-01-22T07:45:00.000-08:00

Inside your home you should inspect your fireplace and call a chimney sweep if necessary. An inspection and maintenance should be preformed for your heating system. An inspection of your dryer hoses and exterior vents should be done at least once a year. Making sure that your hot water tank is in good working order is another step in maintaining your Oakville home. Just prior to the winter months it is good to have the ducts in your home inspected and cleaned-after all you will be relying only on the air that passes through them as you will not be able to open windows in the winter months. It is also good practice to have items on hand that could get you and your family through a storm and subsequent power outage. For instance check batteries in flashlights and keep them in a easy to find place. Make sure you have some candles, some non-perishable foods, bottled water, a manual can opener and either a traditional corded phone or cell phone. For more tips visit http://housesforsaleoakville.com/real-estates-houses-homes-Oakville-winter-maintanance.html

Jo Hardy

Five Home Renovations That Pay Off

2012-01-19T07:31:00.000-08:00

Five Home Renovations That Pay Off
With homes sitting on the market for months, many homeowners are turning to remodelling projects that not only make the house look better, they also help increase the value of the home. Even if you're not selling your home, you may want to consider some of the renovations listed below that help increase the value of a home:

#1 Get the roof replaced: If you have an older home, get the roof replaced. The average roof costs anywhere from $6,500 to $8,000. Experts state that if you get the roof replaced, a homeowner can recoup the costs, plus an additional 50% on top of what they had paid.
Contact Joanne for local Oakville roofers

Five Home Renovations That Pay Off
With homes sitting on the market for months, many homeowners are turning to remodelling projects that not only make the house look better, they also help increase the value of the home. Even if you're not selling your home, you may want to consider some of the renovations listed below that help increase the value of a home:

#1 Get the roof replaced: If you have an older home, get the roof replaced. The average roof costs anywhere from $6,500 to $8,000. Experts state that if you get the roof replaced, a homeowner can recoup the costs, plus an additional 50% on top of what they had paid.
Contact Joanne for local Oakville roofers

#2 Upgrade the kitchen: The kitchen is one area of a home that is used quite a bit. It's also one of the first rooms that perspective buyers look at. If you have an older kitchen, consider upgrading the cabinets and counter tops. Higher quality material such as Cherry and Granite can pay off big in the long run.
Contact Joanne for local Oakville kitchen contractors

Click here to read the full article.

Jo Hardy

Oakville Retirement Homes

2012-01-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

While Oakville attracts many new families to its thriving, luxurious, tree-lined, streets and welcoming waterfront, it is also home to many retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. To find out more about the Oakville retirement lifestyle and Oakville's options for retirement living, click here to get links and resources and to read more.

Jo Hardy
oakvilleproperty.com

Happy Holidays

2011-12-21T11:36:00.000-08:00

With Christmas just a few days away with people doing their last minute shopping I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Holidays.
Jo Hardy
oakvilleproperty.com

St. Andrew's Christmas House Tour

2011-11-28T08:51:00.000-08:00

St. Andrew's Christmas House Tour will be held Friday December 2nd & Saturday December 3rd, 2011

St. Andrew's Christmas House Tour has been a holiday tradition in Oakville since 1981. This year's tour presents an eclectic mix of historical, waterfront and architecturally unique homes. Each of the eight homes is decorated for the Christmas season by incredibly talented local designers, offering visitors a wonderful opportunity to soak up the holiday spirit, as well as inspire them to decorate their own homes for the festive season.

The event is Saturday, December 3rd from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm. Tickets are $35 each and may be ordered online (below) or through one of the retail locations listed to the right.

For full event details click here to visit the event site.

Community Support Day to benefit the Oakville Milton Humane Society

2011-11-24T05:46:00.000-08:00

Join us today and support the Oakville Milton Humane Society, 5% of the day’s total sales will be donated to our local shelter.To read more visit the Stores event calendar at http://wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/oakville/store-calendar/

No Your Average JO.

Town of Oakville sets budget talks

2011-11-22T10:43:00.000-08:00

Before Oakville tables its proposed 2012 budget in January, the Budget Committee wants to know how satisfied residents are with town programs and services and how important those services and programs are to taxpayers.
“This pre-budget consultation exercise was designed to engage the public at the onset of the budget process,” said Ward 6 Town and Regional Councillor and Budget Chair Tom Adams.
Read more....

Maintaining Your Oakville Home in Winter

2011-11-16T16:51:00.000-08:00

Maintaining your Oakville home is very important in the winter months, not only to keep it looking good but also to avoid costly repairs in the spring time. It is essential to pay attention to items both inside and outside your home and should begin in the fall to do outside maintenance such as touching up peeling paint on the house, fences and trim. If you have a deck it should be waterproofed and sealed to be able to withstand harsh winter conditions. For energy efficiency all doors and windows should be checked for heat loss and weather stripping and caulking should be applied were needed. The roof should also be checked making sure that there are no damaged or missing shingles and that flashing and downspouts are in good working order. Make sure that all paved areas are inspected and that all cracks to paving are fixed as the winter will create farther damage. To read more click here

Not Your average JO.

Keeping Your Home Show Ready

2011-11-12T05:56:00.000-08:00

Oakville, What a Great PLace To Live

2011-11-10T11:59:00.000-08:00

Oakville, Ontario is a wonderful family oriented town to live in. It is a town in Halton Region, on Lake Ontario in Southern Ontario, Canada, and is part of the Greater Toronto Area. It is one of the most affluent as well as desirable towns in Canada to live in. It is about a 45 minute drive to Toronto and has excellent go transit service to Toronto and surrounding areas.

Oakville has a lot to offer. Downtown Oakville’s Main street has exqusite shopping and restaurants. Downtown Oakville has a fine collection of retail boutiques including art galleries, restaurants, gourmet food shops, high fashion and design houses, health, wealth and wellness centres. As a modern, fun, and happening place there is always something to do in downtown Oakville such as the ever-popular ‘Midnight Madness’, the legendary Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival, and ‘A Taste of Downtown Oakville’.

There is historic sites and museums in Oakville which include Canadian Golf Hall of Fame & Museum, Oakville Galleries, Spruce Lane Farmhouse, Oakville Museum. Since Oakville has such a wonderful waterfront, there is a waterfront festival in the summer which has proven to be a wonderful town event.

There is lots of beautiful parks and greenspace to enjoy such as Bronte Creek Provincial Park. For Golfer’s there is Glen Abbey Golf Course, site of several Canadian Open professional golf championships and many other amateur tournaments. There are also sports associations and recreational facilities in Oakville.
To Read more Click Here

Oakville Milton housing Market On Track

2011-11-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Article from OMDREB
The Oakville Milton housing market is on track for a strong finale to 2011, according to figures released today by the Oakville, Milton and District Real Estate Board.
October sales of existing homes totalled 754 – a 12.3 percent increase over October 2010, and year-to-date sales showed a 9 percent gain over 2010. Once again, sales in Milton registered the largest increase, jumping 32 percent from 120 in October 2010 to 158 in October 2011.
The dollar volume of sales processed through the OMDREB MLS® system was up significantly in October, increasing 25.3 percent year over year and 15.5 percent year to date. This reflected an increase in the average sale price in October for both Milton and Oakville. In Milton the average price of a home increased by 11 percent over October 2010 to $423,152. In Oakville, it rose 18.5 percent to $641,909.
New listings in the area were up by more than 10 percent in October 2011. This follows a 7.5 percent increase in September 2011 and points to a continuing strong response from sellers to the positive price gains over the past several months. to read more click here

Community Information about Oakville Ontario

2011-10-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Article from: oakville.com
How well do you know the community in Oakville?
If you are looking to have some fun, there are lots of things to do from events & festivals, museums, galleries, historic homes and more. There are many great parks, swimming pools and recreation centres in Oakville to choose from.

If you want to get involved in the community, consider joining some of the community organisations and residents & business associations or participating in volunteering programs at local charities.
Below, we have provided a handy list with links to many of the community services that Oakville has to offer.
read more click here.

Santa Clause is Coming to Town

2011-10-19T08:25:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, when all the little kiddies will be out on the town for Toronto's Santa Clause parade. I used to love watching my kids go by in the floats during the parade and there is just a touch of nostalgia when I think that we'll be watching from the sidelines this year. Great weather and great occasion. I am also looking forward to our own Santa Clause parade here in Downtown Oakville on Saturday November 19th. Be sure to check out the colouring contest click here for details

Ho Ho Ho. Not Your Average JO.

De-cluttering and De-Stressing

2011-10-12T07:12:00.000-07:00

It's amazing what de-cluttering a room can do to a room and to your stress level.

Is the stress of a cluttered life style taking a toll on you? Excessive clutter can be a problem and interferes with your life. If you are caught in a similar situation then its the right time to take control over your stuff before it takes control of you. Plain and simple, get rid of all the items that are no longer in use. Simply donate them to a needy person or organization that can use these items.
Read more at http://www.housesforsaleoakville.com/4a_custpage_58689.html

If you have any questions please post your questions and comments below and I will be glad to help out.

"Not Your Average JO"

How to keep your home show ready.

2011-10-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

Home Automation Ideas

2011-09-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

Make Life Easier

Get Everything at Your Fingertips with Home Automation
In these busy and often stressful times, having a little help around the house can be handy. Home Automation (HA) tools are a great way to make things run more quickly and efficiently around the house. Here's a list of just some of the great HA tools you can use to make your life a little easier.
Plug and Use Home Automation
Just plug a wire-free HA module into an electrical outlet and you have instant control of lighting, heating, and curtains. A wire-free HA module is a great tool when you are away and want your home to look occupied.
Biometric Fingerprint Locks
Always losing your keys? If you've ever had to go to the expense and bother of changing all your locks, you may want to consider one of the new biometric locks. This is a fingerprint recognition door lock that makes house keys obsolete. Once you scan your fingerprint into memory it will be recognized on the sensor. Up to 99 fingerprints can be stored to ensure frequent visitors (such as family members and cleaners) can gain access to your home. No more having to leave keys under the doormat.
To read the full article click here.

Not Your Average JO.

What do you know about HST?

2011-09-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone, I have written in my blog about this subject before and I have come across a lot of people that still aren't sure about how it effects their home purchase.

This is going to affect all of us, so the more participation we get the better the outcome will be!!

Earlier this week, the Government of Ontario formally launched its latest on homeowners, purchasers and sellers with the introduction of legislation to harmonize the provincial sales tax and goods and services tax.

What is the HST?

The Harmonized Sales Tax will blend the PST with the GST. For consumers such as you and I, it will mean higher costs for items that were previously PST-exempt. For business, taxes will be lower. The government believes that lower business taxes will ultimately lead to lower prices for goods.

HOW IS THE TA X BURDEN LOWERED?

It involves changing the rules surrounding how the taxes are applied. Under the current system, businesses pay sales tax when they buy office supplies, machinery and other goods. These costs are eventually passed along to consumers. However, companies receive tax credits to cover the GST paid during the production of their goods and services. Harmonization extends these tax credits to the provincial part of the tax. The end result is lower production costs and more money to spend on machinery and equipment.

Homebuyers and sellers in Oakville and Ontario will pay 8 per cent more on legal fees, appraisals, real estate commissions, home inspection fees, and moving costs, adding about $1,500 in new taxes to the average residential real estate transaction in Ontario.

For homeowners the HST will also add hundreds of dollars in additional tax on utility bills (gas, electricity and home heating fuel), on home renovation labour, the cost of lawn upkeep or landscaping and the cost of snow removal.

Please help Oakville and Ontario REALTORS® fight this tax. In less than 30 seconds you can send an email to your MPP asking them to vote against sales tax harmonization legislation, by clicking here: http://bit.ly/stopthehst

Contest helps raise awareness about affordable housing

2011-09-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

Story source is halton.ca
2011 marks the 5th anniversary of the Be a Hero. Be a Voice for Affordable Housing contest for high school students.

Since its pilot in 2007 more than 200 students representing high schools from across Halton Region have participated in the Be a Hero contest, and more than $5000 in cash prizes has been awarded.

Created to help bring awareness to the need for more affordable housing in Halton; the Be a Hero. Be a Voice for Affordable Housing contest has been recognized as being a model for youth engagement and recognized by the U.S. based PRNEWS Non-Profit Awards and the Toronto chapter, IABC for Corporate Social Responsibility.
To read all the details click here

"Not Your Average JO"

Staging your Kitchen to Attract Potential Buyers

2011-08-31T07:21:00.000-07:00

If your kitchen is messy or cluttered with years of accumulated knick-knacks and appliances, potential buyers cannot envision themselves living in your kitchen. They want to see that the area has been lived in, but they don't need to see every single utensil you've ever purchased laying out on the counter. Homes with staged kitchens usually sell 3 to 5 times faster than other homes, so try some of these practical ideas for staging your kitchen for sale.
Get it Clean.
To read the full article click here.

"Not Your Average Jo"

I have moved!

2011-08-25T07:17:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I’ve moved! Advantage Plus Realty is my new home.
I will be providing the same great service, but in a more intimate
setting. I’m really excited about this change and looking forward to
providing you with service that helps your transition be as smooth
as mine was. Please feel free to contact me for an evaluation of
your home and tips on staging your backyard! Wishing all of you a
happy, healthy summer. JO (Not Your Average)

Visit me at housesforsaleoakville.com

Got the wet basement blues?

2011-08-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Wet basements are the most common problem found in houses – both old and new.
So if your basement is wet, take heart: you are in excellent company! It is estimated that over 95%
of all basements will leak at some point in their lives.
The fundamental cause of wet basements is hydrostatic pressure. When it rains and the soil becomes
saturated, the water in the soil wants to fill the void created by the basement excavation. In very heavy
rain, you might think of your basement as a boat in water, essentially displacing its equal volume in wet
soil. Hydrostatic pressure will force water into any crack or crevice that allows entry.

The older the house, the more minute entryways water will find. If your house has a stone or rubble
foundation, there won’t be a weeping tile to relieve the pressure at the joint of footing and foundation.
Weeping tiles were generally unknown until the advent of block or poured concrete foundations.....Click here to read more.

Joanne hardy
"Not your average Jo"

2011 DOWNTOWN OAKVILLE JAZZ FESTIVAL

2011-08-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

Experience a Taste of Bourbon Street…in Downtown Oakville!
2011 is the 19th year of the Oakville Jazz Festival. A highly successful event, attracting thousands of residents and tourists, this is one Jazz festival that historically has stuck close to its name and presents a wide variety of jazz music. Where many so-called jazz festivals have gone astray in their programming, the Oakville Jazz Festival still presents a line-up primarily focused on the jazz genre.

For event details and to read more visit, http://www.oakvillejazz.ca/ or http://www.oakvillejazz.com/

Oakville's Art in the Square Kerr Village

2011-07-22T06:58:00.000-07:00

Arts in the Square – Arts, Music, Culture & Community Festival & Market

Come out and support the arts in all their variation and glory! Invite your friends and family too!
Saturdays from June 18 – October 1, 2011
Up to 30 vendors: artists, sculptors, artisans, crafters, jewellers, re-purposers and makers of super cool and creative stuff to sell their merchandise
-LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
-DELICIOUS FOOD
For more information visit the Arts in the Square Facebook page by clicking here. Or you can email: artsinthesquare@gmail.com

Have a great weekend and enjoy the weather Oakville.

Not Your Average Jo.

Downtown Oakville Midnight Madness 2011

2011-07-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Story courtesy of Oakville.com
Celebrating over 30 years of madness, this is Downtown Oakville’s largest retail event of the year! Midnight Madness 2011 draws a crowd of over 50,000 to enjoy a variety of community performers, bands and of course, great food!
Join the retailers of Oakville's Downtown and take in the amazing shopping deals while you stroll the streets during this incredible evening of entertainment.

For the full story visit Oakville.com

How to keep your home show ready

2011-07-14T10:00:00.000-07:00

FREE REAL ESTATE E-Books

2011-07-07T12:55:00.000-07:00

To receive information, follow Oakville homes for sale free real estate e-books. and select the e-book you wish to receive. After your clicking on SUBMIT button, the e-book of your choice will be instantly sent to you by e-mail.

To receive all three e-books, you will need to select each book individually and click the submit button.
You will then receive 3 seperate emails with one book in each email.

I ONLY collect personal information necessary to effectively market and to sell the property of sellers, to locate, assess and qualify properties for buyers and to otherwise provide professional services to clients and customers.
I do not sell, trade, transfer, rent or exchange your personal information with anyone.

"Not your average JO"

Free real estate e-books

What do you love in Oakville?

2011-06-24T15:41:00.000-07:00

Oakville Realtors know there is no better place to raise a family, run a business, or to grow old and retire than Oakville, Ontario. In Oakville, you have the convenience of city living in a small town atmosphere where parklands flow freely and life is practiced daily with leisurely walks, hiking, biking, and yoga on green lawns. Oakville realtors also have the advantage over other realtors in the Greater Toronto Area as they have some of the best-kept homes for sale where people flock to look from the bigger cities surrounding it. Because Oakville has access to all the major highways in the area, as well as a zippy go-train system, getting to and from Oakville to anywhere is a snap. For an example of the best-kept homes I am referring to, take a look at my new listing! http://www.housesforsaleoakville.com/14a_read.php?ltl=759176

"Not Your Average JO"

Easy Ways to Spring Clean Your Oakville Garden

2011-03-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

Here in Oakville, springtime takes a while to arrive, and when it does, much needs to be done in the garden. The summer growing season is not long so there definitely is no time to lose in the spring. Actually, the serious gardener will start tidying up the area as soon as the days have temperatures above freezing. Here are a few clean-up steps that most growing spaces need when winter ends.

Trimming, Clearing Debris, Straighten Borders & Boundaries, Weed and Loosen Soil

For details and more great tips click here for the full article.

Joanne hardy
"Not your average Jo"

Staging your Oakville home? Don't forget the basement.

2011-02-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

A lot of people overlook the basement when staging their Oakville home for sale. Click here to read more about the importance of staging your basement.

Joanne Hardy
"Not Your Average Jo."

Public gets a say on energy plan starting next month

2011-02-15T05:54:00.000-08:00

Source: John Spears Business Reporter

Starting next month, Ontario residents will get their chance to comment on the province’s $87 billion long term energy plan. Colin Andersen, chief executive of the Ontario Power Authority said in an interview Monday that the authority will be inviting comment in a variety of forums. “In March we’re anticipating we’ll be out there: In person, Webinars, opportunities for people to send in written comments,” he said.
The power authority will be putting out more information of its own to guide citizens through the complex plan, Andersen said. The broad plan, released in November, confirms that Ontario’s remaining coal burning plants will be scrapped by 2014.
To read more click here

Joanne hardy
"Not your average Jo"

Feedback needed on Town of Oakville tax increase

2011-01-11T13:25:00.000-08:00

Town of Oakville tax increase, January 11th, 2011 by Richard Douglas
Staff recommended a 3.32 per cent total tax bill increase to the Budget Committee to protect existing program and service levels at a budget meeting held at Town Hall yesterday. The proposed increase includes previous financial commitments such as road pavement improvements, renovations to Queen Elizabeth Park Community Centre, annualization of costs associated with Sixteen Mile Sports Complex, and the completion of a new transit facility.
Click here to read more.

Polar Bear Dip raises $150,000 for Wolrd Vision

2011-01-05T13:14:00.000-08:00

The weather was anything but frightful and it paid off for the 26th annual Courage Brothers’ Polar Bear Dip for World Vision.
Canada's largest charitable polar dip held annually on New Year’s Day at Oakville’s Coronation Park raised $150,000 to provide fresh water for communities in Tanzania.
The dip far surpassed its goal — first set for $60,000 and hiked to $100,000 in late December — for the second consecutive year.
To read the full article from InsideHalton.com click here

Happy New Year Oakville

2011-01-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and all the best wishes for 2011 from Joanne Hardy

Sleigh rides with Santa.

2010-12-21T12:56:00.000-08:00

Stocrest Percherons is located on a beautiful 100 acre farm in Moffat located in the Niagara Escarpment. At Stocrest Percherons you will admire 15 Percheron mares, beautiful trees and plenty of natural beauty.

During the 2010 Winter Season we will be doing sleigh rides with Santa.

For details visit their website, StocrestPercherons.ca

Seasons Greetings from Joanne.
To visit my website for more Oakville information click here.

Oakville Ontario Christmas

2010-12-13T07:16:00.000-08:00

Check out this great Christmas song about Oakville, Ontario.

Thinking of a new kitchen? Read this first...

2010-12-07T06:30:00.000-08:00

The kitchen has become the heart of every home. Many of my clients in Oakville and the GTA have expressed a desire to turn their kitchen into someplace where they can eat, entertain and live. While it's exciting to begin picking out cabinets, countertops and appliances, a kitchen remodel is a major project that shouldn't be attempted without some initial planning.

One of the things people tend to overlook when starting their kitchen remodel is the placement of lights. Be sure you provide adequate and appropriate lighting for food preparation, cooking and around the eating area. Another factor to consider is how easy or difficult your new kitchen surfaces will be to clean. Will the material you've chosen stain or scratch easily? Newer countertops now have rounded corners, which are safer and easier to clean.

If you are thinking of tackling a kitchen remodel project, contact me. I can give you some tips on how your new kitchen can maximize the value of your home.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

Christmas with Oakville Moms

2010-12-05T09:43:00.000-08:00

Celebrate on Wednesday December 8th, 2010, from 10 am to 2 pm at Busy Bodies Indoor Playground (245 Wyecroft Rd. Unit 3)
Santa Claus will be making a special appearance at the event so be sure not to mis it.

Happy Holidays from Joanne Hardy.
"Not your average Jo"

First Impressions Count... For Buyers and Your Neighbours

2010-08-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

The summer months are the perfect time to freshen up the exterior of your home. Whether it's for your pleasure or to impress potential buyers, you'll boost your home's curb appeal with these good old-fashioned cleaning tips:

- Edge the gardens, clean out debris

- Pull the weeds and rake the leaves

- Prune the plants and wooly shrubs

- Plant some urns by the entrance and flowers to the beds

- Tidy the garage of winter trappings

- Dispose of rusty broken garden décor

- Put out a fresh welcome mat and oil the front door

- Paint the windowsills, mailbox, and anything else that is looking tired

- Place clear light bulbs in exterior fixtures, and ensure burned out bulbs are replaced

- Reseal the driveway

- Hide the garbage cans

- Sweep the step

- Fix the saggy gutters

Who says cleaning has to hurt? Get the kids involved! Borrow or buy a power washer and have fun cleaning siding, windows, sills, railings, decking and patio furniture.

"Not Your Average JO"

Tips on How to Use Your Home as an Income Property

2010-07-19T17:34:00.000-07:00

An income property is a home that is bought or developed in order to generate income, typically by renting it out in part or in its entirety. Using your home as an income property can be a financially rewarding experience, either to provide extra income, or to help you pay off your mortgage.

Before taking action it is important to understand some of the key points involved in using your home as an income property.

Some things to consider before you start

1.Check the Municipal regulations – are you legally permitted to turn your home into an income property? Would the unit adhere to all existing building and fire codes?

2.Financial considerations - does your home require renovations to make it tenant ready? If yes, do you require financing? Has your bank pre- approved you for a loan?

3.Legal Considerations - make sure you understand the landlord – tenant relationship regulations in your province. This will have a great impact on what you can and cannot do as a landlord.

After your initial research, there are a few things you can do to make your property more attractive to potential tenants.

1.Your home should look clean and tidy inside and out. This will bring more renters through your property and you will have a more receptive audience

2.Update your home if necessary. From simple changes such as fresh paint in a neutral color to major renovations, try and make your home look and feel as spacious, bright and comfortable as possible.

When you’re ready to rent, price and market your unit competitively. Scan the classifieds and visit rental websites to find out how much similar units are being listed for. You can also ask your Royal LePage agent for pricing advice or to help you find the right tenants through a listing

"Not Your Average JO"

Screen Door Décor

2010-07-06T09:48:00.001-07:00

Screen doors let the breeze in and keep the bugs out. They open your home to the sounds and scents of summer, and help cool your house without wasting energy on air conditioning. Want to let in a little more summer this year? Here’s what you need to know about picking the perfect door.
Screen doors have come a long way from the hard-to-open metal models and flapping wood doors of your childhood. Available in metal, vinyl or wood, many feature smooth hydraulic or pneumatic closers and springs or chain stops that keep them from slamming shut or swinging open. Designed for both practicality and curb appeal, doors are available in a wide variety of colours, styles and finishes. Your choices include:

Basic vinyl or aluminum. Durable and affordable, these doors come in a surprising variety of attractive styles; you’ll find everything from traditional designs to art deco-inspired geometrics.
Storm/screen door combo. Traditionally, people replace the screen door with a storm door in the winter. A combination door makes the “swap” easier; simply remove or slide the glass down in summer and replace it with a screen.
Wood. From rustic doors featuring carved animals to pretty “granny doors,” wood can really add to the look of your home. However, winter cold and damp can be hard on them, so manufacturers suggest that you take them down when it gets cold to prevent warping.
Sliding. Inexpensive and easy to maintain, sliding screen doors that go with patio doors make it easy to open up your home to a fresh breeze.
Retractable screens. If you don’t like the look of a screen door, these are a great option, and are available at your local home improvement store. Screens pull out from the sides and lock shut with a magnetic catch. Handy homeowners will be able to install them with little effort.

With the right screen door for your home, comfort and curb appeal are a breeze!

Tips for installation
Thinking about installing your screen door yourself? Manufacturers include installation instructions that only require hand tools, but most DIY resources suggest an intermediate level of “handiness.” If that doesn’t sound like you, consider using an experienced carpenter or the store’s installation service.
Condo Cool
You don’t have to live in a house to kick back and enjoy the breeze. Welcome summer into your space by installing a screen door to your balcony. It’s a great way to make your indoor and outdoor spaces feel unified and to make your condo feel more spacious.

"Not Your Average JO"

Bring the Country Home

2010-06-25T06:02:00.001-07:00

Perhaps you’ve chosen to delay a cottage purchase or postpone your vacation plans this summer. Not to worry. You can still enjoy the pleasures and surroundings of cottage or country living. No matter where you live or what kind of home you own, all it takes is a few simple decorating ideas to help create a country cottage look that is fresh and airy with a lived-in feel. Here are some design tips to help get you started.

Furniture

Sofas should be plump, casual and comfortable to set a relaxed tone for the rest of your home. Chipped wooden arms and legs on some of your favourite furniture? Not a problem, because with a country look, “aged is in”. Even old wrought iron or wicker chairs, settees, rockers or tables can be used inside your home to help bring out that natural rural charm. Don’t forget about things like footstools and ottomans for putting your feet up.

Fabrics

Think cotton, linen, and wool, as these are natural fabrics that feel good to the touch, require less maintenance, and won’t look out of place in a cottage-like setting. Choose white and neutral-toned colours for larger fabric surfaces such as tablecloths and bedspreads. Keep the patterns and floral designs for smaller accessories: curtains, pillows, dishtowels, or napkins.

Floors and Ceilings

Hardwood, faux-finished, or even painted wood floors are a great way to achieve a natural, country look. Accent floors with durable area rugs in high traffic areas; consider a sisal or sea grass rug in lower traffic areas for that lighter, summer look. Using beadboard on the ceiling of a kitchen or sunroom is an easy way to achieve that quaint, cozy feel.

Walls

White or light coloured walls mixed with a little floral wallpaper will bring balance to any country-style room. You can tone down wallpaper that’s too bright, and give it an “antique” feel, with a diluted smoke-tone glaze. If you prefer leaving walls painted, consider hanging floral prints, old quilts, or collectible plates to complement the space.

Accessories

Display fresh or dried flowers in pitchers or enamel jugs along with an assortment of glazed pottery, copper, and painted tins known as toleware. Set out traditional lamps with a wicker, terra-cotta or vintage-looking ceramic base.

So whether you want to transform your entire home into a pastoral paradise, or just add some small, simple touches to a modern room, the key to a country cottage feel is to keep things simple and comfortable.

"Not Your Average JO"

Decks & Patios

2010-06-11T09:07:00.000-07:00

Summertime is here and now is the time you may be wishing you had a patio or deck to enjoy the summer weather on! Below is some information that you could use if you decide to take on the job this summer!

Home improvements increase your home enjoyment, but they also affect your home’s value – adding or upgrading a deck or patio can yield a 50 to 75% return on investment at resale*. These tips will help you plan for your deck and patio improvement needs with a focus on resale value:

Assess – Decide what the main purpose of your deck or patio will be: for entertaining, relaxing, or simply to improve the look and landscape of your yard. This will help determine the size, layout, and need for things like eating areas and built-in seating.

Research – Understand whether you require a building permit to meet fire and structural safety standards, even if you’re just upgrading an existing deck or patio. Contact the zoning department to help locate any underground utilities if you plan on doing any digging.

Materials – Determine the right kind of deck or patio to fit your needs. Wood is ideal for design flexibility, vinyl is durable and low maintenance, and composites look great and are eco-friendly. For patios, brick, flags, cobbles, and concrete all offer durable and cost-effective solutions.

Shape – Create a deck or patio that looks like an extension of your home. Right angles convey a strong, sturdy look while soft or round angles help create a casual, relaxed atmosphere. For patios, allocate space in your design for gardens or flowerbeds.

Location – Situate your deck or patio adjacent to an entry door of your home as this will make traffic flow easier when serving a meal or entertaining outdoors. Decrease the elevation of the deck or patio from the door threshold approximately 10cm to allow for snowfall.

Enclosure – Consider building an enclosure for your deck or patio. Enclosures made of mesh, glass, or aluminum can help provide shade, protect against insects, and allow you to enjoy your space in the rain and in colder temperatures.

Accessorize – Complement your deck or patio with stylish accessories like wicker chairs, cedar benches, hammocks, wind chimes, and lounge chairs. Install outdoor electrical outlets so you can enhance the mood with lighting and music, or utilize other electrical devices as desired.

Maintain – Replace rotting boards and rusty nails, and treat wood decks with a water seal each year. Use a polyurethane compound to minimize the appearance of cracks in your patio and apply a concrete sealant to protect against moisture and UV rays.

A deck or patio is like adding another room to your home. They’re a great way to expand your living space, get a little closer to nature, and entertain outdoors. Depending on the quality of installation, materials and maintenance, your new deck or patio carries a minimum life expectancy of 15 years.

*Appraisal Institute of Canada

"Not Your Average JO"

Inside-Out: Creating a Great Outdoor Room with an Interior Sensibility

2010-06-07T05:27:00.001-07:00

I’s that time of year when Canadians retreat to the great outdoors to enjoy everyday activities like cooking, eating, and entertaining. Nowadays many homeowners are demanding more comfort and convenience when connecting with nature, and that’s why “outdoor rooms” are growing in popularity. An outdoor room makes use of an exterior space such as a yard, deck, patio or balcony to extend the living area outside the home. Its purpose is to mix the luxury of indoor living with the fresh air, ambiance, and natural setting of the outdoors.

Whether you’re creating a new outdoor room or simply updating an existing space, you may want to try and mirror your home’s interior design, extending its comfort and aesthetic appeal to the outside. Think of the project as being two sides of the same door. A consistent design theme allows for a harmonious transition between the interior and exterior of your home and can even make your living space appear bigger. Achieve this flow by using similar colour schemes, flooring types, area rugs, and mats.

Heat, cooking facilities, seating, and lighting are just some of the indoor comforts you might consider bringing to your outdoor room. Start with a hearth product such as a fireplace, firepit or chimney as your focal point, and position your seating and cooking areas accordingly. For those who love to cook there are a variety of options available ranging from all season stainless steel BBQs to complete outdoor kitchens with dual burner cook top grills, refrigerator, and expansive counter space for food preparation. Check with your local municipality to determine what products are safe and allowable for your specific set-up.

When it comes to furniture and accessories, think outside the box. Instead of the standard table, umbrella, and patio chairs, consider things like coffee tables, settees, and sofas with stylish, stain and mildew-resistant fabrics. Many manufacturers build furniture and recreational products specifically designed to be used both inside and out, such as outdoor speakers, game tables, and cocktail bars. For added privacy and sound absorption use large potted plants, such as pyramidal cedars, to act as natural walls.

At the end of the day, your outdoor room will be more than a deck or patio; it will be a cozy, comfortable place to retreat, relax, and have fun. You’ll never want to go inside again!

"Not Your Average JO"

First of June, BBQ season is officially here!

2010-06-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

The weather is certainly begging us to have a backyard BBQ, spend some time by the pool and just pretty much soak up the summer beginnings. Here are some tips on entertaining on a budget so we can do it even more often!

Backyard Entertaining on a Budget

Nothing says “bring on summer” quite like a backyard BBQ. It’s the perfect mix of friends, the fresh outdoors, and fantastic food! But just because you want to throw a social, doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Here are a few ideas of how to entertain outdoors on a budget:

Food

Send an electronic invitation to your friends to let them know you’re throwing a pot-luck BBQ. Create a food list and give guests an idea of what to bring, usually a side dish or dessert. Remember to prepare as much as possible in advance so that you can spend most of your time outside with your guests and not in the kitchen.

Seating & Décor

Arrange several seating areas if space allows. If you’re short of chairs, ask friends and family to bring their fold-ups that transport easily. Swing by local garage sales or thrift stores if you need extra tables. Pick up colourful vinyl tablecloths, napkins and decorations at your local dollar store.

Kids & Fun Stuff

Kids love the beach, so buy an inexpensive wading pool and fill it with clean sand. Add plastic buckets, spades, blow-up beach balls, and a croquet set from the local dollar store and they’ll be all set. Lay bright beach towels on the grass, or under a tree and the little ones will have their own picnic area too.

Lights & Pesky Bugs

String some white or blue lights around the backyard for nighttime. Place a few tea lights in glass containers and display them around the garden on things like bird baths and paving stones for a magical effect. To stop bugs from crashing your party, stake some tiki torches in the ground or put citronella candles on tables to keep them away.

Favour Ideas

Want to send your friends off with a little gift at the end of the party? If your homemade BBQ sauce is a party favourite, make a big batch, put in sterilized bottles and give to guests. If there is plenty of leftover food, be generous and let everyone take something home for dinner the next day. Don’t forget to save some for yourself!

"Not Your Average JO"

Making the first impression.

2010-05-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

When a prospective buyer walks into the house for the first time they usually form a first impression very quickly. Make sure that you make it a good first impression. Here in these photos you can see that we mad a huge difference in what people see when they first walk into the house. Believe me this can set the tone for the rest of the showing of your home and you want that tone to be a good one.

For more information or if you have any question feel free to contact me at any time.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

Oakville staging in the family room.

2010-05-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Again too much furniture can close a room in but the other thing with this room is the area rug. As you can see the area rug in the before picture made this room look busy and by simple changing to an area rug that is a little more plain and uniform in color really made this room pop and seem more open. There are a lot of things that can be done to make your home look and feel more open and organized. for more information please fell free to contact me with any questions.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

Staging your Oakville home to sell.

2010-05-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

As I have said in the past, one of the easier rooms to stage is the kitchen. There’s no furniture to re-arrange, except the eat it table and chairs. Counter tops should be clear of appliances, spice jars, utensils, and knickknacks. Here I did a total swipe of the counter tops leaving it all clean and de-clutterd, Make sure appliances sparkle. All of this done = MORE VISIBLE SPACE!
There are 2 thoughts on refrigerators one of them is keeping the front free of all refrigerator magnets, children’s artwork, photos,etc. The inside of your refrigerator should never be considered part of the staging project, but don't forget to keep it clean clean and pleasant smelling. Some will open the door especially if the appliances come with the house. The old open box of baking soda tucked in the back works well.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

Too much furniture can close a room in.

2010-05-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes just remove some furniture can make the room appear much more welcoming. Don't be afraid of open space, let the home buyer use their imagination on what they would do if it was their dining room. Again we keep talking about clutter and by removing a few things or moving them around can make a huge difference. Here this room only needed a few tweaks and we achieved the results we wanted.

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"Not your average JO"

Don't Block the room off with furniture.

2010-05-12T08:40:00.000-07:00

You want the room to flow and not have obstacles in the way of movement or the line of sight. Here you can see that the chairs were in the way of the fireplace's line of sight. Not only does the room flow better but it also gives the illusion that it is bigger. Again it is very important to clear surfaces from any items you have on display to give the room a clean look and let the potential buyer imagine their personal items in the room.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

This weekend...

2010-05-12T04:27:00.000-07:00

There is something to be said about living in Oakville and looking at Oakville Housing as a property investment that is sound. Oakville boast some of the prettiest park lands in all of the Greater Toronto Area and has miles and miles of pristine trails and paths, which are used daily by residents from one to one-hundred and one. These natural oases are the backdrop for meeting and enjoying company, wearing off everyday stresses, and obtaining regular exercise in a setting that is filled with birds singing, trees blowing, and animals scurrying in and out. It is a wonderful place to share old times or to create new ones.

For more beauty offered by Oakville, check out the Love of the Arts Festival this weekend.

6th Annual: For the Love of the Arts Festival

Arts, Cultural, and Community

Start time: Sunday, May 16, 2010 - 11:00AM

End time: Sunday, May 16, 2010 - 4:00PM

Oakville Town Hall

1225 Trafalgar Road
Oakville, ON

A free event featuring visual arts exhibitions, live performances, and activities. Learn about the many arts, cultural, and community groups operating in Oakville. Discover how you can; enjoy a show, become an engaged citizen, or pursue your interest in dance, music, painting, sculpting, weaving, photography, or poetry. The possibilities are endless!

"Not Your Average JO"

Staging your Oakville home to sell.

2010-05-10T08:02:00.000-07:00

The first thing people see when they walk into a home is the foyer or hallway. Making sure this area is free of clutter and is as open as possible to allow for free movement give the people an easy feeling when they come into your home is very important. As you can see in these before and after we accomplished just that. Removing the large area rug and replacing it with a smaller one at the door entrance. Removing clutter on the floor and at the front door including shoes and coats and keep surfaces clear of any unnecessary items. As you can see here we reomoved a couple plants that were on the hutch at the front door making the area much more tidy.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

Staging another Beautiful Home for sale in Oakville

2010-05-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

Location of the property, sale price of comparable homes in your neighborhood and today’s market conditions are factors that are out of your control. But you do have control of the desirability of your property. Remember home staging can fill the imagination of a prospective buyer. Stay tuned for details on how I staged this home and tips for you to get your house ready to sell.

For more information and to sign up to my newsletter click here.

"Not your average JO"

HST Info for you

2010-05-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Have questions about the toll HST will have on your pocketbooks?

Check out the link below:

http://www.rev.gov.on.ca/en/taxchange/pdf/taxable.pdf

For more information on HST in Canada, http://www.hstincanada.com/2010/04/ontario-hst-transition-rules/

Check out what Oakville businesses are doing for YOU!

2010-05-02T04:34:00.000-07:00

Businesses in Oakville understand the value of the tourist dollar and enjoy the fact that more than 1.4 million tourists flock to their fine city yearly investing more than 88 million dollars in local restaurants, theatres, performing centers, shopping, shows, and buying up Oakville housing deals and properties. It is a great place to do business for everyone.
Whole Foods is an example of a business in Oakville that is doing something fun for us to enjoy.

Check out the Town of Oakville Make Your Move Recipe Contest Cook Off.

The details are below:

2:00 PM, Sunday, May 02, 2010

Plan to attend as Whole Foods Market hosts the finalists in the Town of Oakville Recipe Contest Cook Off. The top three "Chefs" in each category will prepare their recipes to be judged by Chefs from participating local restaurants. Contestants will be judged on the following:

* Nutritional content/analysis

* creativity

* ingredients selected

* taste and appearance

* knowledge

The overall grand prize winner will have their dish sold in the Prepared Foods Department at Whole Foods Market with profits being donated to the local food bank.

http://wholefoodsmarket.com/storesbeta/oakville/

Check it out!

"Not Your Average JO"

What about Oakville realtors?

2010-04-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

Oakville Realtors also have the luxury of knowing that in this fine city, the people enjoy a rich cultural heritage and a long and upstanding history for acceptance and change, without fearing that they will change the atmosphere or attitude of its residents. Here home is definitely, where the heart is. And, there are definitely many hearts that call Oakville home, especially Oakville Realtors! I know that so many people and places have made Oakville a spectacular place for me to spend my time.

"Not Your Average JO"

A Tip for Buyers...

2010-04-18T05:08:00.000-07:00

It pays to make Bi-weekly or weekly payments.

Most mortgages have the option to allow payments to be made on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This option may be desirable for two reasons. The first is it can save you money as you can expect to pay off your mortgage about 4 years sooner. This can save you dramatically over the life of your mortgage. The other reason why these options are so popular is that if your employer pays you on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, you can simplify your budgeting by making the payment line up with the way you paid.

Check out more tips for buyers on my website. http://www.johardy.com/.

"Not Your Average JO"

Eco-Smart Gardening

2010-04-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

Even if you don't have a particularly green thumb, you can make a difference. Check out these tips on being Eco-smart!

Eco-smart gardening makes a lot of sense. It can help reduce carbon dioxide levels, promote environmental sustainability, and even save you a little money. Here are a few quick tips to get you started:

De-fuel. According to Statistics Canada, using a standard gas mower for one hour causes the same amount of pollution as driving a new car 550 kms. For a greener alternative, try using push reel or electric mowers and cordless trimmers. These non-gasoline powered solutions help eliminate harmful emissions, are quieter, and can save you anywhere between $55-550 in annual fuel costs.*

Cut high. Set your lawn mower so it cuts high (approximately 7-8 cm from the ground) to encourage the growth of deep roots. Taller blades and deeper roots make grass more naturally resistant to insects, help control crabgrass, and conserve moisture better by shading the soil.

Grow up, not out. For condo dwellers and those who lack landscape space, growing vertical plants or herbs on the side of your building is a great alternative to a traditional garden. Vertical plants require minimal care, help cut down on noise, and will improve air quality around your living space.

Waste not, want not. 50 per cent of water used for gardening in Canada is wasted as a result of overwatering.** To prevent water waste, use the soaker instead of the mist setting on your hose. This delivers water directly to the base of the plant and reduces water loss due to evaporation. If using a sprinkler, keep the water low to the grass and make sure it doesn’t fall on nearby sidewalks or driveways.

Let it rain. Rainwater, not chemically-treated tap water, is the best source of nutrients for growing your plants and collecting it is always a good idea. Creating your own rainwater collection system can be as easy as setting up jars, bowls, or barrels to collect and store water for drier periods. You can also take advantage of rainwater by positioning downspouts so that water flows directly onto planted beds, lawn areas, or directly into your rainwater collection system. Either way, you can watch your plants grow up, and your water and utility bills go down.

"Not Your Average JO"

* Analysis based on data from Environment Canada.

** Natural Resources Canada.

Thinking about buying a home? Tips on organizing your finances

2010-04-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

First time home buyer? Here are some answers to questions you might have.

Down Payment

How much will I initially need to purchase my new home?

You will need enough funds to cover your down payment and closing costs, as well as the remaining balance on the cost of the home. This can be sourced through financing or other means.

A larger down payment means greater savings.

The money you pay up-front for a house is the down payment. Down payments are typically a percentage of the purchase price of the home. The source of money for your down payment is often either your savings or the net proceeds from the sale of a home you already own.

The larger your down payment, the more you save in the long run. A larger down payment:

Reduces the amount of your monthly principal and interest payment

Reduces the total amount of interest you pay over the life of your mortgage

Your Mortgage Specialist can help you compare mortgages, determine which mortgage is right for you, and show you money-saving strategies.

Closing costs
Closing costs are the legal and administrative fees and disbursements associated with buying your home. These costs are in addition to the purchase price of the home. They can vary widely depending on:

The property being purchased

Services required

Taxes

Applicable insurances

Closing dates affecting interest adjustments

The balances of any prepaid expenses

Ask about the Home Buyers' Plan

The Home Buyers' Plan (HBP) lets a first-time buyer withdraw up to $20,000 from RRSPs for a home purchase, subject to certain repayment conditions. For more information, check the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency website.

A beautiful weekend to avoid spring cleaning!

2010-04-03T15:22:00.000-07:00

It definately feels like summer here this Easter weekend, but truth be told, we are knee deep in beautiful spring weather! It is the perfect time to enjoy the patio with your family and friends. If you do decide to stay in for a little bit, here are some tips for Spring Cleaning! I might save the practical application for next weekend though!

Let Spring Cleaning Come Naturally

Did you know that your home can sparkle this spring without using any chemicals? Choose from a wide array of eco friendly cleaners on the market or simply make your own with household ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice. Here are a few tips to help you become a natural when it comes to spring cleaning:

The Bathroom

Want to bring out a natural shine to your sinks, toilets, and tubs? Create a gentle scouring paste by mixing 4 tbsp baking soda with 1 tbsp water. Generously sprinkle either table salt or baking soda into the sink or tub and use the cut end of half a fresh lemon as a scrubby-pad. Rinse with hot water and your ceramics will be gleaming! Undiluted lemon juice can also be used to dissolve soap scum and hard water deposits.

The Kitchen

Vinegar, a natural antibacterial, has a high acid content which makes it an effective alternative to caustic cleaners for the kitchen. Mix together 1 part water to 1 part vinegar in a new spray bottle and you have a natural solution that will clean stovetops, appliances, countertops (except marble), and floors. For troublesome stains, add a touch of baking soda to the mix.

To help remove finger marks from stainless steel appliances use a microfibre cloth or try a dab of baby oil on a clean cloth. For microwaves, put a few slices of fresh lemon in an uncovered bowl of water and cook on high for about three minutes. Grease and dirt should wipe away easily.

Windows

Let the sunshine in by washing away winter’s grime. Fill a bucket with 25 per cent vinegar and 75 per cent warm water. Put on rubber gloves and soak an old cotton towel in the solution. Rub on windows, and then scrunch up some old newspaper to buff up a shine. If there are any streaks, simply finish off with a dry cloth.

Fabrics and Carpets

Have a stubborn fabric stain? Dab white vinegar onto the stain followed by a mild soap solution such as all natural dishwashing liquid and water. Rinse with a clean damp cloth and blot with a dry towel. Salt can also be used to soak up fresh carpet stains such as red wine, coffee or ink. Simply pour salt on the wet stain, let dry, and then vacuum. Natural ingredients can not only get rid of stains, they’ll help eliminate odours from fabrics too!

Again, I'd save all these tips for after company goes home! Enjoy the chocolate eggs and ham.

"Not Your Average JO"

Global blog - Hopskotch Through Continents

2010-04-01T04:54:00.000-07:00

Check out how they do real estate across the globe!

I’d like to start off by saying, who wouldn’t want to own a piece of property that borders on two continents?? You could have one foot in Europe and the other in Asia…well sort of, if you’re in Istanbul. Mind you, if you’re planning to buy in this city, you should have a substantial down payment…like 90%??!! Most residents of Istanbul don’t use mortgage services at all, and if any financial help is acquired, it is in most cases a small loan. How do they buy real estate and have that much cash on hand?? Wait for this…They SAVE it! If they can only afford a small apartment with the money they have…that’s what they buy. Then they save more and when they can afford to upgrade they do. A world away from the real estate business here in Oakville, where a large portion of the transactions taking place require financing. At the end of the day, we could use a few saving tips from our friends out in Istanbul. To me That is Not Average.

Check out more international blogs at http://www.yourglobalblogger.com/

"Not Your Average JO"

Serena Ryder calls Oakville home for a couple nights.

2010-03-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

OAKVILLE BEAVER - Two-time Juno Award winning singer/songwriter Serena Ryder will perform a pair of intimate solo concerts. The 26-year-old pop-rocker will be at the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts Thursday and Friday (March 25 and 26). “I find performing (solo) is really intimate and especially in a theatre environment, you are really able to connect with the audience.”
The singer will be joined on stage by the Madison Square Gardeners guitarist and vocalist Johnny Kengla who will play the electric guitar and do back-up vocals.....read more
Article by Dominik Kurek OAKVILLE BEAVER STAFF Mar 24, 2010 - 3:52 PM

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"Not your average JO"

Energy Efficiency Checklist

2010-03-22T05:33:00.000-07:00

In this era of rising energy prices and global warming, it makes sense that our homes should be as energy efficient as possible. An easy way to do this is to know where your home is likely to lose energy and then take corrective action to minimize the impact.

I have an energy efficiency checklist that I would be happy to share with you free of charge. That way, you'll be ahead of the game when it comes to energy conservation.

Home Energy Checklist

What You Can Do Today...
- Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120F). You'll not only save energy, you'll avoid the risk of accidental scalding.

- Check if your water heater has an insulating blanket. An insulating blanket will pay for itself in one year or less!

- If you own a waterbed, make sure you make your bed today. The covers will insulate it and save up to one-third of the energy it uses.

- Begin using energy-saving settings on your refrigerator, dishwasher and clothes washer/dryer.

- Make sure you check the age and condition of your major appliances, especially the refrigerator. You may want to replace it with a more energy-efficient model before it expires.

- Examine your incandescent lights for opportunities to replace them with compact fluorescents. These new bulbs can save three-quarters of the electricity used by incandescents. The best targets are 60- to 100-watt bulbs used several hours a day. Measure the clearance in your fixtures to make sure they will accommodate compact fluorescents, which are slightly larger than incandescent bulbs.

- Clean or replace the filters in your furnace, air-conditioner and heat pump.

...This Week
- Visit the hardware store. Buy a water-heater blanket, low-flow showerheads, faucet aerators and compact florescent bulbs.

- Rope caulk your leaky windows.

- Assess your heating and cooling systems. Determine if replacements are required, or if there is a way to make them work more efficiently to provide the same comfort (or better!) for less energy.

...This Month
- Look over your electricity and fuel bills. Target the biggest bill for energy conservation remedies.

- Crawl into your attic or crawlspace and inspect for insulation. Is there any? How much?

- Insulate hot water pipes and ducts wherever they run through unheated areas.

- Seal up the most noticeable air leaks in your house - the ones that whistle on windy days or that feel drafty. This includes windows and doors, but also unnoticed culprits like utility cut-throughs for pipes ("plumbing penetrations"), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, as well as unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. All the little, invisible cracks and holes may add up to as much as an open window or door, without you ever realizing it!

- Install a clock thermostat so you are able to set times for your house temperature to be lowered, such as when you are out during the day, and through the night.

- Schedule an energy audit (ask your utility company or local energy office) for more expert advice on your home as a whole.

...This Year
- Insulate. If your walls aren't insulated, have an insulation contractor blow cellulose into the walls. Bring your attic insulation level up to snuff.

- Replace aging, inefficient appliances. Even if the appliance has a few useful years left, replacing it with a top-efficiency model is generally a good investment.

- Upgrade leaky windows. It may be time to replace them with energy-efficient models or to boost their efficiency with weather stripping and storm windows.

- Reduce your air conditioning costs by planting shade trees and shrubs around your house - especially on the west and south sides. Know that you are making a difference!

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"Not your average JO"

Great Oakville Restaurants

2010-03-17T10:06:00.001-07:00

La Parisienne Creperie...
You adore attention to food presentation and wish to acquaint yourself with a little taste of France, without traveling outside of Oakville? This quaint restaurant with a flare for crepe creation is where you will find it. If you’re a French Onion soup lover, you will not be disappointed – it was absolutely the best I’ve tasted. The atmosphere, along with the spectacular food is a perfect pairing! The 15% tip is automatically added to the bill, which is beneficial if you’re not a fan of calculating the perfect tip for your server. The service was friendly and the wait staff took their time when explaining about the food and its fresh preparation. This is a place you want to choose for a special occasion.

4.5 JO’s out of 5!

Buying Oakville Property

2010-03-15T05:56:00.000-07:00

Buying an Oakville property is buying into a community that enjoys diversity while enjoying a rich cultural heritage with many waterfront events and festivities. This community has no qualms with letting new comers know they would love to have them. If you are looking for a wonderful place to bring up healthy children, Oakville has some of the best schools and can provide a safe place for your children to play, while providing you and your spouse the best any city has to offer if you are looking to start a family or making plans to retire.

And, when you finally find that Oakville property that is just right for you, don’t waste any time putting in an offer; after all, with all the great things this community has to offer, property doesn’t stay on the market long around here.

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"Not your average JO"

Housing starts, home buying intentions rise

2010-03-09T08:45:00.000-08:00

(By Ka Yan Ng Reuters)
TORONTO (Reuters) - Canadian housing starts rose a better than expected 6.1 percent in February, reinforcing views that the residential housing sector is a major force pulling the economy out of recession.
Starts on new homes rose to a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 196,700 units in February from a downwardly revised 185,400 units in January, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp said on Monday.
The number of starts in February surpassed the average forecast of analysts for 190,000. The January figure was a slight downward revision from the previously reported 186,300 units.
"Overall, with the better than expected gain in residential construction activity in Canada, it appears that the new homes market is slowly coming back to life and may finally be benefiting from the resurgence in overall housing market activity," said Ian Pollick, economics strategist at TD Securities.
The Canadian dollar rose to a six-week high of C$1.0257 to the U.S. dollar, or 97.49 U.S. cents, following the housing data.
It currency pared gains as details showed most of the strength was due to a 19.1 percent surge in the volatile multi-dwelling group.
That group, which includes high-rise condos, soared to 89,900 units in the month. The closely watched single-family home component showed starts increased by a muted 0.5 percent to 89,200 units. Still, single-family housing starts have advanced for 10 straight months.
The mounting activity was in line with a strong rebound in sales and prices in the broader housing market, spurred by consumer confidence and low interest rates, after the market hit bottom during the global financial crisis.
Analysts expect the market has the legs to advance further this spring before the arrival of new mortgage rules in April and changes to provincial sales tax regimes in British Columbia and Ontario in July cool things down a bit.
"Housing starts continue to chase surging home sales, which appear to have a green light through the spring," said Robert Kavcic, an economist at BMO Capital Markets. Along with the tax and mortgage rule changes to come, he said he expected interest rate hikes should temper demand.
Meantime, Canadian home-buying intentions for the next two years has risen to 10 percent from 7 percent two years ago, according to a home ownership survey by Royal Bank of Canada (RY.TO: Quote).
Six in 10 Canadians also believe home prices will increase this year, up from 25 percent in 2009, the survey found. Similarly, 64 percent think mortgage rates will be higher over the next year, up from 33 per cent a year ago.
The RBC study also found that 91 percent of homeowners believe a home is a good investment, the highest level in 12 years, while 26 percent expect their home to be their primary source of income when they retire.
Regionally, CMHC said Ontario led February's gain in housing starts, jumping 28.6 percent from January, followed by a 14.3 percent advance in the Atlantic provinces. The Prairies rose 10.8 percent, while British Columbia was up 8 percent. Only Quebec saw a decline, with a 14.1 percent fall.
Rural starts were estimated at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 17,600 units in February.
(Reporting by Ka Yan Ng; editing by Rob Wilson)

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"Not your average JO"

Why Buy Oakville Property?

2010-03-08T06:58:00.000-08:00

Oakville property is reasonable, as it is just far enough outside Toronto that people with an average income of around $89,000 dollars can afford to invest in some of the great real estate buys available. Oakville offers a quiet living to most people, but also has a major tourism industry, which drops more than 88 million dollars each year into the city businesses through dining out, theatre, performing arts, dance, music, festivals, golf courses, and shopping. These tourists’ numbers generally range around 1.4 million, so if you run a small business in this community you are bound to enjoy some of these spoils. Not to mention Oakville property throughout the city is less than an hour from the United States and has immediate access to 401, 402, 407, and the QEW, which makes coming home quick and easy.

The other great thing about Oakville property is the natural parkland that can be found throughout the city. These parklands include natural hiking trails, biking paths, beautiful creeks, scenic vistas, soccer fields, playgrounds, and much more. And, if that is not enough check out the great waterfront where you can see yachts travelling in and out of the marinas, find lots of water activities and sailing boards, stretches of long sandy beaches where you can sunbath or paddle the hours away. Then at the end of the day, stop and enjoy a spectacular sunset lighting the night skies with crimson reds and gold

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"Not your average JO"

Using Mls Oakville

2010-03-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

Using MLS Oakville you can quickly find the right home for you in a community that still cares and annually enjoys more than 1.4 million tourists who spend more than 88 million dollars dining out, shopping, enjoying leisurely activities, recreational fun, and night time recreation. These tourists know that Oakville offers them something no place else can...a great place to visit and look forward to retiring in. Many of these people annual check out the housing market, and the MLS Oakville listing seeking the home that is just right for them, after their work years have passed by.

Maybe it is time, you too checked out MLS Oakville for your retirement home; after all, Oakville welcomes new residents with open hearts and arms. And when you are looking for your ideal home don’t forget to check out the area for its natural splendour. There are more than 140 kilometres of trails, naturally flowing creeks, and around 17 kilometres of waterfront property, some of it for sale.

Retirement home on a lake with spectacular sunsets...should you be checking out MLS Oakville today? Many splendid neighbours would love to have you and your loved ones join them.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville MLS Listings

2010-03-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

Founded in 1857, Oakville has never lost its innocence and charm. This community is rich in cultural heritage and features some of the finest MLS Oakville listings along a beautiful lake. The shoreline here is nothing short of spectacular with its festivals, water fun, and fantastic sunbathing and sunsets. This is a truly wonderful place to bring the whole family, so they can play and relax. And yet, this family oriented community features one of the best acute care trauma units in the area, and have easy access to all the major highways including the 407, 403, and QEW, plus the 401 series highways, and it is less than one hour from crossing into the United States of America.

The MLS Oakville home listings will show you an area that is rich in parklands, featuring more than 2,400 acres of prime real estate land developed into luscious green landscapes featuring blooming gardens, walking and hiking trails, and bike paths that span many neighbourhoods. Walking not your thing, then take a bus, a cab, or the go-train.

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"Not your average JO"

Canada strikes Gold

2010-03-01T07:39:00.000-08:00

Well we did it again. Not only did Canada win the gold in men's hockey we broke the record for the most gold medals won by any country at a winter games. I have to tell you that I am one proud Canadian. The streets of Oakville were lined with true Canadian fans, the horns were honking and the Canadian pride was everywhere. Congrats to all the athletes for an outstanding Olympics and to Vancouver and us fans for hosting the best winter Olympics ever.

Not your average JO.

Oakville Property

2010-02-25T19:38:00.000-08:00

Today, buying an Oakville property is no major feat, as there are many ways available to find one. You can seek the right property for you using MLS Oakville, the internet, or by looking up Oakville property on your local real estate boards in the greater Toronto area. With Oakville, founded in 1857, located just a short thirty-minute drive from Toronto, all the major players in the real estate industry will have the home listed in Oakville available on their websites and through their local offices. Because Oakville is such a charming and distinct community offering several fine neighbourhoods with a host of wonderful and welcoming people, finding a home is never too easy, but they are there for those who want to enjoy a small town environment, but big city amenities.

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"Not your average JO"

Selling your home with a realtor - Or go it alone?

2010-02-09T20:12:00.000-08:00

If you have decided that now is the time to sell your home, you might be thinking: should I hire a Real Estate Sales Representative or do it alone. Have you ever considered repairing your own car? Anyone can buy the tools and parts. However, most of us just do not have the knowledge, training, experience or the expertise and commitment of time to do the job properly. Besides, there are plenty of experienced professionals to do the work for us.........To read more click here

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"Not your average JO"

Client Testimonial on selling their Oakville Home

2010-02-09T12:54:00.000-08:00

I received a great testimonial from one of my Oakville clients. It is great to get feedback like this. Thank you for the testimonial Margaret

Testimonial:

I have had plenty of experience in working with real estate agents over the years,
but when I met Joanne at an open house she was hosting, I knew I had met the perfect agent.
She is enthusiastic, charming, and very knowledgeable about housing in the Oakville market.
Joanne worked harder than any agent I've met in selling our house, and through her efforts, we sold our home for exactly the price we had hoped to achieve.

Listing our home, and finding the perfect new residence with Joanne's help was a truly satisfying experience.
I would strongly recommend Joanne to anyone looking to buy or sell real estate in the Oakville area.

Margaret

Home sales in Oakville for January 2010 increased.

2010-02-05T12:57:00.000-08:00

Oakville homes for sale have increase in Jan 2010 by 133% over Jan 2009. There have been signs that the Oakville Real Estate Market is starting to recover. See the stats below.

The source for these stats is OMDREB

For the full document follow this link, January 2010 OMDREB Market Report

Looking for Oakville homes for sale?

2010-02-05T12:17:00.000-08:00

Running a small business after purchasing a home in Oakville just makes sense as you have easy access to everywhere and can count on the locals to shop at home. The Oakville community prides itself on its independence and rich heritage, and ensures that its citizens have all the amenities offered in the big city at less costs. Another luxury this small community enjoys is a fully-staffed and quality acute care facility of its own so residents and trauma patients have access to the best care before being transferred to other locations for necessary treatment.

All of these reasons are good reasons to visit Oakville and to look for Oakville homes for sale as a great place to raise a happy and healthy family, while enjoying the spoils of your labour. What a great place to retire!

So why not start looking into Oakville homes for sale today, and see if you can resist the great deals offered here.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Experiences “WAY TOO MUCH ENTERTAINMENT

2010-02-03T06:54:00.000-08:00

The Grand Opening Of Entertainment Central Brings Wendel Clark’s Classic Grill And Sports Lounge, Yuk Yuk’s, Berlin Nightclub And Duelling Pianos - All Under One Roof
OAKVILLE, ON – Wendel Clark, former Captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, makes his mark in the history books again. From scoring goals to writing a book on his hockey life to building “The Wendel Burger” – the town of Oakville welcomes Wendel Clark’s Classic Grill and Sports Lounge.
Now an even larger location with over 15,000 sq. ft., housing four distinct venues Entertainment Central has something for everyone at the Grand Opening on February 1, 2010.
Located at 370 Dundas Street East (Dundas St. and Trafalgar), Entertainment Central is Oakville’s newest hotspot for fine dining, comedy, dancing, meeting and mingling all under one roof and parking is ALWAYS FREE.
To reda more visit http://www.oakville.com/news/business/2010-02-02-oakville-experiences-way-too-much-entertainment-

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"Not your average JO"

Haiti donations still coming in across Oakville

2010-02-03T06:21:00.000-08:00

While the earthquake in Haiti was weeks ago, local residents haven’t forgotten about those in need. The Milton Salvation Army and Red Cross both report that donations for victims in the impoverished country continue to be made to their offices.
Collectively the two charities have received almost $30,000 of in-office donations — $4,500 at the Salvation Army and $22,790 at the Red Cross — that will be used to assist the thousands of Haitians in need.
Donations can still be made at the Red Cross and Salvation Army, which are both located at 100 Nipissing Rd.

To read more visit Inside Halton at "http://www.insidehalton.com/news/article/603304--haiti-donations-still-coming-in

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville homes for sale

2010-02-03T06:05:00.000-08:00

Oakville homes for sale can be located in various regions of the city, but the preferred destination is along the waterfront. Like all tourists areas, the waterfront of this city boasts yacht clubs, boating and water activities, and seasonal festivals and events, all meant for your family to enjoy, not to mention, with most of it being free.

Anyone buying Oakville homes for sale is sure to enjoy a proud and luxurious standard of living with so many special attractions they will never have to leave home to enjoy world-class entertainment. Oakville offers theatre, music, comedy, dance, orchestra performances, performing arts, golf tournaments, yacht clubs, jazz festivals and much, much more, and it is only one hour from the American border where you can cross and enjoy what they have to offer as well.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Homes for Sale at Affordable Prices

2010-01-18T09:03:00.000-08:00

This community attracts more than 1.4 million tourists each year planning to enjoy the splendor and activities enjoyed in this community of less than 165,000 people. These tourists annual boost Oakville’s tourist industry by investing more than 88 million bucks every year enjoying golf courses, theater, dining, and nightclubs. These tourists are repeat visitors, as they know what all Oakville residents’ know as well. Oakville homes for sale are at an affordable price, featuring quiet residential neighborhoods filled with friendly neighbors, vast parkland, and individual neighborhood businesses there to meet their families growing needs.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Homes for Sale

2010-01-15T10:08:00.000-08:00

It seems there is no time like the present to look for a home to raise your family in and finding Oakville homes for sale will turn into the biggest bonus for your family, as you can enjoy all the amenities of big city life in a small town neighborhood, without driving away from home. Located within an easy thirty minute drive of one of Canada’s largest cities, Toronto, this small community in the GTA features direct access to the 407, 403, and the QEW. It also has one of the quickest and best go train systems in all of Ontario, making driving into the city not necessary at all. Jump on the go train and way you go!

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville, A Great Place to Run a Business

2010-01-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Oakville can easily boast the over 1.4 million visitors that stop by annually and spend more than a whopping 88 million dollars in tourist revenue, which in turn is reinvested in the businesses the tourist visit. Talk about a great place to run a business. Tourists to this area enjoy shopping, theatre, music, dance, and many other entertainment venues, making this a great place to purchase a house for sale Oakville, and a lively and entertaining place to set up a small business.

Besides all these great things, Oakville has some of the best waterfront festivals in all of Ontario with the majority of them being free to the entire family. Tourists flock here in droves to partake the festivities.

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"Not your average JO"

Buying a House in Oakville

2010-01-04T06:20:00.000-08:00

Besides being one of the nicest communities along the lake, buying a house for sale Oakville would mean enjoying the luxury of having a top-notch full-service, quality acute care hospital located right in your own home town, where loved ones will be treated with respect and receive the best of everything. This thriving community is home to more than 165,000 residents, yet it has the feel of a small town with each subdivision being like a neighborhood of one’s own. These neighborhoods celebrate life together while offering house for sale Oakville residents a place to enjoy many recreational facilities within a short drive of their homes.

As well as being a superb place to raise a family, and enjoy recreational activities, the business community here enjoys the luxury of having easy and accessible access to all the major highways including the 403, 407, and QEW. Oakville also has a great Go transit system and wonderful, quaint and charming shopping districts offering anything your family requires. This wonderful community is well maintained, which makes buying a house for sale Oakville a smart and economical choice, as you have access to the greater Toronto area, without the steep prices that living inside Toronto costs. Oakville is located one hour from the American border, which makes importing and shipping costs quite reasonable and timely.

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"Not your average JO"

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T06:16:00.000-08:00

Wishing Everyone a Happy New Year and best wishes for a prosperous 2010 from Joanne and her team.

"Not Your Average JO"

A House for Sale in Oakville

2009-12-30T08:53:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a great Christmas. I just thought I would write a post about making a move to Oakville properties.
Today you will find all kinds of great deals in Oakville. A house for sale in Oakville, Ontario will bring you to an impressively vibrant community that offers all the amenities you would hope to find in any metropolis, but with a small town feel and sense of quieter living and relaxation. House for sale Oakville represents a quiet leisurely living along side on of Ontario’s great lakes and yet is only a short drive, thirty minutes, from Toronto, one of Canada’s largest cities. The beautiful Ontario community has a great sense of heritage and celebrates it annually along the lakefront.

Founded in 1857, Oakville now has great neighbourhoods that are clean, tidy, and people friendly, and it is a great place to locate a small business, as the majority of the population believe in shopping locally. Oakville also features some of the most prestigious schools where all the children go and enjoy meeting and learning together, so to find a house for sale Oakville, would be a very family-oriented decision sure to bring plenty of quality living for every member of your family.

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"Not your average JO"

Christmas In Oakville

2009-12-23T06:44:00.000-08:00

December 23, 2009 Santa Claus Wagon Ride in
Oakville

Enjoy a horse-drawn holiday wagon-ride with Santa through charming downtown Oakville and shop amongst strolling Christmas Carollers featuring the Rose, Frenzy and Feltrin Quartets.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville MLS Listings

2009-12-23T06:35:00.000-08:00

House hunting can be an arduous task, but house hunting using MLS Oakville can make that arduous task easy by comparison. Today’s MLS listings make finding the home that is perfect for your family quick, simple, easy, and affordable.

The MLS Oakville listings open the door to a community that is thriving and blossoming. Oakville is just a short drive, 30 minutes, from greater Toronto and offers some of the world most wonderful festivals and entertainment, not too mention reasonable homes in a community not far from a major Canadian/American access hub. Realtors selling homes over MLS Oakville know that the community they represent is one of the best in Canada where neighborhoods are filled with people who enjoy small town living in a big city and some of the most neighborly people in the world.

If you are interested in looking at more houses for sale in Oakville, Houses for Sale Oakville and view hundreds of homes for sale in Oakville, and surrounding area.

Click here to see this Oakville Home for Sale

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"Not your average JO"

Dream house for sale in Oakville

2009-12-20T10:53:00.000-08:00

To purchase your dream house for sale in Oakville means to relax in the luxury of knowing you have access to more than 2,400 acres of parkland that featured hiking trails that are groomed and maintained, a variety of recreational centers, yacht clubs, golf courses, and tons of programmed activities for all ages. It is a wonderful place to play and enjoy the sun in the summer and the snow in the winter. Sun or snow, a house of sale in Oakville offers you the widest variety of climate and recreational options you could ever have. There is always something to do, year around.

Today, an average income is estimated to be around $89,000 dollars, which means buying a house for sale in Oakville is reasonably priced, close to all major centers in the greater Toronto are. Oakville is a wonderful place to run a business and raise a family, before sitting back, to enjoy the quiet contentment offered to you in this community, as a respected senior citizen ready to retire.

So why wait, why not start your search today for a house for sale in Oakville. There are many selections available and all at a cost you can afford.

If you are interested in looking at more houses for sale in Oakville, Houses for Sale Oakville and view hundreds of homes for sale in Oakville, and surrounding area.

Click here to see this Oakville Home for Sale

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"Not your average JO"

Buying a House in Oakville

2009-12-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

When you are looking to buy a house for sale in Oakville, remember to keep in mind that Oakville offers one of the most modern, acute care hospital facilities in the area, which means not leaving your community to get your loved ones the medical services they need. This is a real bonus when it comes to quick access for major traumatic situations.

Oakville, Ontario is a great place to do business as well. With over 1.4 million tourists annually stopping in to enjoy this wonderful community, they invest more than 80 million dollars into the local merchant’s cash register by attending events, going to theatre, enjoying sporting and recreational activities, dining out, and partaking in local festivals held down on the waterfront. No place does festivals better then Oakville.

If you are interested in looking at more houses for sale in Oakville, Houses for Sale Oakville and view hundreds of homes for sale in Oakville, and surrounding area.

Click here to see this Oakville Home for Sale

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"Not your average JO"

Tis the Season!

2009-12-08T06:06:00.000-08:00

I absolutely love Oakville at this time of year! Don't miss out on the Holiday Magic in Downtown Oakville. Shopping season is in full swing. The beautiful streets are filled with busy bodies shopping for loved ones and enjoying lunches and dinners with friends they don't get to see throughout the year. This is the time for catch-ups and reunions. Who are you going to put into your busy schedule this December? If you're really feeling the festive fever, you have to check out the Strolling caroller quartets and festive horse-drawn holiday wagon-rides with Santa. It happens here every weekend and it is the stuff they sing about in the Christmas Carols we all know by heart. JO.

Open House Sunday 2-4 @ 1503 Lakeshore Road, Oakville

2009-12-04T16:50:00.000-08:00

Yes, this House is Open this weekend in Oakville! It is a custom 4 bedroom bungalow in Prime SouthEast Oakville on a .35 acre lot with outstanding professional landscaping, salt water pool, private courtyard and waterfall feature. Vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, walk-up basement with large rec. room & more! Open concept main floor perfect for entertaining! 1503 Lakeshore Road, Oakville, L6J 1L9. See you there! JO

No Snow November

2009-11-30T07:10:00.000-08:00

As we move into the beginning of December, I am in disbelief. This has been the first November in 100 + years without a single snowflake melting on our windshields…

Now before we pay too much attention to the oddity that is snowless November, I will tell you that our streak is just about over! Snowfall on Thursday is in the forecast. If you’re a big fan of that white stuff, you’ll have it for your Christmas shopping sooner than later. Seems like I’ll be trudging it through it when I hit the shops here in Oakville. So tell me…have you started piling your goodies into your Santa Sacks?? JO

SOLD!

2009-11-08T08:40:00.000-08:00

After doing my final backyard blog for my before and after staging project, I was able to walk around to the front yard and put a sold sign on the property! Was it the great house, the fabulous vendor or the fact we rolled up our sleeves and de cluttered and staged this home to sell? By starting with a clean slate we were allowing potential buyers to pick up the chalk and start writing their own story! Until next blog. Not Your Average JO.

Oakville Home Staging, Backyard

2009-11-06T09:13:00.000-08:00

I removed the old summer flowers replacing with fresh fall flowers in the pots as I did in the front yard. Clearing the back yard from kids toys to garden equipment opens the back yard space and allows the potential buyer to envision their backyard ideas. Setting up the lawn furniture in it's place and making things neat and tidy all round will help accomplish this.
This has been a great project and will definitely help sell this home. Remember your potential purchasers have to image their stuff in your house. By having things cleared and put away it is much easier to people to get a good idea of how things would look if they lived their.
Stay tuned for my next home staging project in Oakville.
If you are interested in looking at more houses for sale in Oakville, Houses for Sale Oakville and view hundreds of homes for sale in Oakville, and surrounding area.

Click here to see this Oakville Home for Sale

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Home Staging, Basements

2009-11-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

I de-cluttered all of the book cases opening up the space and again de-personalizing it. I used some of the dining room furniture downstairs to add warmth. People tend to use basements as storage-bad move when selling!!! With the sparkling windows (and basement windows are usually the smallest and dirtiest) so they really benefit from this, all of the "stuff" neatly stored away people can see themselves comfortably living in this great basement space!!! Follow along as I take you step by step through staging this Oakville home to sell.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Home Staging, Master Bedroom

2009-11-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

The first goal in staging a master bedroom is to create a space that appeals to both men and women. A place to sleep at night and a place to put their clothes is what most men are looking for. On the other hand women want a sanctuary, a relaxing place read a favorite book, as well as a place to put their clothes. Here I added some light fresh bedding making the room seem less masculine. Pulling back drapes and letting in lots of natural light. I also cleared the room of any clutter. Follow along as I take you step by step through staging this Oakville home to sell.

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"Not your average JO"

Oakville Home Staging, Office

2009-11-02T13:55:00.000-08:00

Staging a home office should be easy, remember getting work done is the home office's primary purpose. Often such rooms become catch all places. No more personal photos ,no more clutter, hide all cords from office equipment. With this house for example clean fresh windows allow the backyard views to envelop the room. Follow along as I take you step by step through staging this Oakville home to sell.

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"Not your average JO"